Israel is facing a significant mental health crisis among its military personnel. Following the intense conflict that erupted after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, the Israeli Defense Ministry has reported alarming statistics. Cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among soldiers surged by nearly 40% since September 2023. Experts predict this figure may rise by as much as 180% by 2028.
The toll of war is heavy. Over 1,100 Israeli service members have lost their lives, and many others are grappling with severe mental health issues. The pressure of combat roles, violent encounters, and the ongoing conflict with Hamas and Hezbollah have worked to push many soldiers to the brink.
The mental anguish soldiers endure is often twofold. Clinical psychologist Ronen Sidi notes that a primary source of trauma stems from the constant fear of death while on duty. Many soldiers witnessed the harrowing October 7 attack firsthand, which left them profoundly shaken. Common reports detail feelings of heightened anxiety and a lingering state of alertness long after they return home.
The second layer of trauma comes from what psychologists call “moral injury.” This refers to the deep emotional distress that arises from actions taken during combat that conflict with one’s moral beliefs. Decisions made in the heat of battle can lead to unintended harm to civilians, leaving soldiers like Paul, a reservist, burdened with guilt. He shared how the sounds of gunfire haunt him even during mundane activities, forcing him to leave his job and seek help.
Israel’s military and healthcare systems have responded by increasing budgets for mental health services and expanding treatment options. The second-largest healthcare provider, Maccabi, reports that 39% of military patients have sought mental health support in recent years, with 26% expressing concerns about depression. Some innovative therapeutic alternatives, like surfing therapy provided by organizations like HaGal Sheli, aim to facilitate healing through unique experiences.
Despite these efforts, a report from an Israeli parliamentary committee revealed a troubling rise in suicide attempts among soldiers—279 attempts between January 2024 and July 2025. Combat troops accounted for 78% of suicides, emphasizing the urgent need for effective mental health care.
The complexity of the issue is compounded further. Sidi warns that the mental health care network in Israel is overwhelmed. Wait times can be lengthy, and many individuals don’t seek help due to stigma or lack of understanding of their condition. Immediate assistance is given, but soldiers must face cumbersome evaluation processes, adding to their distress.
Current wars in Gaza and northern Lebanon continue to escalate tensions, making the likelihood of further combat engagement high. As the situation develops, the challenges for mental health support remain pressing. For those on the frontline and those affected at home, the struggle for mental health care is far from over.
For more insights on mental health challenges faced by military personnel, see the American Psychological Association and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Source link
Gaza,IDF,Lebanon,health,Mental Health,PTSD
